Public and private schools in Obuasi and Obuasi East municipalities in the Ashanti Region have been temporarily shut down following violent clashes between illegal miners and military personnel guarding an AngloGold Ashanti (AGA) mining concession.
The unrest began on Sunday when illegal miners allegedly breached a security fence at an abandoned AGA concession. The confrontation led to an exchange of gunfire, resulting in the deaths of at least eight miners and injuries to several others.
Eyewitness Baba, who narrowly escaped, described the incident:
“More than 300 of us were there. The soldiers parked their vehicles, and their commander, after taking a call, opened fire on us for nearly 30 minutes.”
Despite increased security deployment, residents remain uneasy.
“It’s scary living here now,” said Aduruwaa, a local resident.
To ensure the safety of students and teachers, the Obuasi Municipal Education Directorate has closed schools for two days.
“We cannot guarantee their safety,” said George Koomson, Director of Education for the municipality.
The mining company has advised workers to avoid wearing uniforms or items linking them to AGA for their protection.
Meanwhile, President John Mahama has directed AngloGold Ashanti to cover the medical expenses of the injured and called for a thorough investigation into the incident. Samuel Aboagye, NDC Parliamentary Candidate for Obuasi East, pledged to seek accountability for the military’s actions.
